The Transfer Tavern

Leeds want to offload Laurens de Bock in the summer

There is no denying how important Leeds United’s match with Yorkshire rivals Sheffield United on Saturday truly is. The Whites will know that a win against the Blades could be what they need to ensure they win promotion to the Premier League via the automatic spots as it would open up a five-point gap between the two teams.

However, regardless of whether Marcelo Bielsa’s side are in the top-flight or remain in the Championship next season, it appears one man does not figure in the Argentine’s plans.

What’s the News?

According to a report by Voetabl Belgie, Leeds are looking to offload Laurens de Bock after a disastrous time at Elland Road.

Currently out on loan at K.V. Oostende, the left-back failed to make an impression in his first six months at the club before heading back to his homeland, where again he is struggling to make a real impact.

However, Leeds are looking to recoup the €1.7million (£1.5m) they spent on him in January, which could be a little difficult considering his performances so far.

The Verdict:

When Thomas Christiansen had signed De Bock from Club Brugge in January 2018, there was an expectation that he would go on to be a great addition for the club, however, that could not be further from the truth.

The 26-year-old seriously struggled to get to grips with Championship football and made just seven appearances for the Whites before being replaced by Tom Pearce for the remainder of that particular campaign.

And, it is hardly surprising to hear that he is deemed surplus to requirements under Bielsa as well, especially with the likes of Barry Douglas and Ezgjan Alioski at the club – with the Macedonia international appearing to thrive in the position at the moment.

The Argentine could also look to the transfer market in the summer to upgrade the area with additional strength and depth should they return to the Premier League, making a place for De Bock in the squad a little harder.

Whether Leeds are able to recoup the transfer fee they paid for the defender remains to be seen and at the moment it would appear to be unlikely, as his performances for Oostende will not have done much to convince anyone to splash the cash on him.

Leeds fans, what do you make of the news that the club want to sell De Bock? Do you think you’ll recoup the fee paid out for him initially? Join in with the discussion below by sharing your thoughts with us.